What happened
Approximately 20 minutes into the flight, the pilot observed that the fuel gauges were indicating a low fuel quantity. In response to this indication, the pilot decided to perform a precautionary landing at the nearest available airport.
During the approach, the pilot described the flight path as being high and fast. The aircraft was observed crossing the runway threshold while the landing gear was still in transit. Upon touchdown, the landing gear was not fully extended. This caused the main gear to collapse, leading the airplane to slide off the runway. Following the accident, 42 gallons of fuel were drained from the aircraft. All occupants were not injured.
The investigation
A postaccident examination of the aircraft was conducted. Investigators found no evidence of a malfunction within the landing gear system. The investigation noted that the aircraft's normal procedure checklist requires the pilot to verify that the main gear is down and that the green gear down indicator light is illuminated.